Listen and Learn: Tips for Balancing Work and Cancer

by Laura Mosiello
filed under Interview, Radio

Earlier this week I was interviewed by Genae Girard.  Genae is a young adult breast cancer survivor, author of “Off The Rack”, and creator of www.beyondtheboobietrap.com and www.screamingzebras.com. One of her goals is to provide women and breast cancer survivors with pertinent, necessary information on a wide array of topics. Her website includes archived interviews with experts on body image, lymphedema and dating after breast cancer.

I was happy to talk to Genae on the topic of work and cancer. We covered many areas of interest during the interview, from advice on how to handle mounting bills to different types of legislation that may be applicable for patients and survivors.

Click here to listen to the interview!

 

Young Adults Have Work Issues Too! (Also: i[2]y spotlight)

by Alice McKenney
filed under i[2]y, In the news, YA, Young Adult

For young adults with cancer, dealing with the difficulties of treatment is only one of many obstacles that they will face.  Often, young adults fall into a gray area - not necessarily old enough to be treated as adults, but too old to be seen as children.  This transitional phase is thrown even more out of whack when they are a new member of the workforce.  According to an article in the Scotsman that discusses a recent survey of YA survivors in the UK, "Of those who were in employment, 93 per cent said [that their work] had been affected, with four out of ten leaving their job and three in ten taking unpaid leave."

These numbers are astounding, and is one of the many reasons for the surge in YA resources in recent years.  Chief among these, the I'm Too Young For This Foundation (i[2]y) strives to address the unique needs of the young adult with cancer. i[2]y exists to ensure that every young adult affected by cancer is given access to the best age-appropriate support they are entitled to in order to get busy living at every stage of their survivorship. For more information, visit their website here: http://i2y.com/index.shtml

And if you live near NYC and are a YA cancer survivor, then come check out our brand new support group!

Yoga at Your Desk

by Kate Sweeney
filed under focus, relax, stress, yoga

Yoga is a great way to relax and regain focus. Studies have even shown it helps cancer patients sleep better and reduces fatigue. But between work and doctor's visits, it can be a struggle to find time to even leave your desk. Yoga Journal has come to the rescue with 6 stretches you can easily do at your desk. Below are some of our favorites, but you can find them all here: http://www.yogajournal.com/practice/231. The directions on the site are incredibly detailed, so even newbies can easily grasp the poses. And all but one can be done without even leaving your chair, so noone will even know you're taking your Om-moment.

 

Shoulder Rolls

This movement helps relieve tension in the upper back and shoulders.

Sitting upright, inhale as you lift your right shoulder to your ear. Exhale as you slowly roll your shoulder around and back, dropping it away from your ear. Continue these shoulder rolls three more times, alternating right and left. Now, inhale as you lift both shoulders up to the ears. Exhale as you release them. Repeat five times and then relax your shoulders.

Chair Twist

Twists are the antidote to sitting for long periods of time. After twisting, you will feel the release of all the muscles in your back (particularly in the middle back) that have been locked into position from sitting a long time.

Sit toward the front of a chair, then swivel your thighs toward the right side of the chair so you are sitting diagonally on the seat. Inhale and lift your right arm up to the ceiling. With an exhalation, move your arm to the back of the chair on the opposite side, taking hold of the chair back. Bring the left hand to the right knee or chair handle. Inhale and lengthen your spine. Exhale and twist to the right, pressing your right hand against the back of the chair to deepen the twist. Breathe into your rib cage. Consciously relax the muscles in your back and gently twist a little farther. Stay in the pose for 10 to 15 breaths. Return to your center with an exhalation and repeat on the opposite side.

Balancing Cancer and Careers Seminar, Seattle!

by Laura Mosiello
filed under Balancing Cancer and Careers seminar, Community Seminar, Seattle

On Wednesday, August 18th, the Cancer and Careers team traveled to Seattle, Washington for our Balancing Cancer and Careers Seminar at the Westin Hotel. This event was a huge success thanks to our collaborating partner, Genentech. We had a tremendous turnout of patients, survivors and healthcare providers, all of whom engaged and participated in an active discussion about cancer and employment.

This free, interactive seminar featured the expert advice of:

• Laura Mosiello, Senior Clinical Supervisor and Director of Programs, Cancer and Careers
• Dr. Julie Gralow, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, University of Washington School of Medicine
• Monica Fawzy, Esq., Cancer Legal Resource Center

Some of the audience members at the seminar

 

If you were present at the session or missed this event, please feel free to leave your questions and comments below and we will get back to you.

Cancer Organization Spotlight: CancerCare, Inc.

by Laura Mosiello
filed under Cancer Organization Spotlight, cancercare

CancerCare is a national nonprofit that provides free professional support services for anyone affected by cancer. Their programs include publications, financial support, online, face-to-face and telephone counseling, local events and Telephone Education Workshops.

As a social worker who previously ran their Women’s Cancers Program, I can’t emphasize enough what great services this organization has been providing for the cancer community for 66 years. They have a tremendous staff that is truly dedicated to helping cancer patients, survivors and caregivers manage the many facets of this disease.

For more information please visit: www.cancercare.org or call 1-800-813-HOPE (4673).

Join our Young Adult Support Group!

by Laura Mosiello
filed under Support Group, Young Adult

Young Adults with cancer face unique challenges throughout their cancer experience, especially in the realm of psychosocial needs. As others in their age group embrace social activities and the work world with full force, those diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 21-40 find themselves putting their lives on hold to focus on their cancer. This can sometimes cause a “disconnect” with peers. One patient I counseled described the lack of understanding by her friends as the “strappy sandal syndrome.” She was reduced to socks and pajamas while her friends went out in dresses and strappy sandals unable to relate to her cancer experience. In addition to the isolation one may feel among friends, the work world presents its own list of inherent challenges for Young Adults. Those just starting out in their career or picking up momentum are suddenly halted, trying to keep up and prove themselves.

If you are a Young Adult with cancer/survivor and want a safe place to connect with peers and discuss these issues, please join our Young Adult Support Group:

When: Starting Tuesday, September 21st.First and third Tuesdays of the month

Where: CEW, 286 Madison Ave., 19th floor (40th Street Entrance), NYC

Time: 6-7:30pm

For More Information/Sign Up Contact:
Laura Mosiello, LCSW-R
Cancer and Careers
646-929-8017
lmosiello@cew.org
 

Cancer and Careers' Media Blitz

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under ADA, Cancer Survivor, FMLA, Media Tour, Press, Radio, TV, YouTube

Last week CAC's Executive Director Kate Sweeney did a whirlwind satellite media tour all from a chair in a studio on West 42nd Street in NYC! 

Kate, along with survivor Tammy Zeller, spoke to 29 TV and radio stations across the country.  They chatted about everything from the emotional value of working during treatment to the two most important federal laws to be aware of (the ADA and FMLA) to how important it is for your healthcare team to know what your priorities are, including work if it is one of them. 
 
Tammy also brought the issue to life by telling her cancer story. She was diagnosed in 2008 with breast cancer, and did 20 rounds of intravenous chemotherapy, followed by radiation and then finally four months of oral chemotherapy.  Her workplace was incredibly supportive and apart from surgery and a sick day here or there she didn't miss any more work than normal, which is actually true across the spectrum.  Cancer survivors are no more likely to miss work than their healthy counterparts.  And, as she said, once she could pop a pill with breakfast at her desk and go on with her day, her treatment interfered even less with her life. 

I leave you with my favorite thing Tammy shared, which is the slogan "fake it till you feel it!" that she and her boss came up with to help her get through the bad days.    

See below for one of the TV spots that was aired!

Miami, FL Balancing Cancer and Careers seminar

by Alice McKenney
filed under Balancing Cancer and Careers seminar, Community Seminar, Miami

We're on the road again and will be making our first trip to Miami, FL  to host our Balancing Cancer and Careers seminar.  If you're in the area, join us for this free interactive and educational event!

• Laura Mosiello, LCSW-R, Program Director and Senior Clinical Supervisor Cancer and Careers, will provide practical advice and concrete solutions for employees affected by cancer.
• Dr. Caio Max Rocha-Lima, Professor of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at University of Miami Miller School of Medicine will discuss the value of working through treatment.
• Joanna Morales, Esq., Cancer Legal Resource Center, will address patient rights in the workplace.

When:
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
6:30 PM
Refreshments will be provided.
Where:
The Westin Coral Gables
180 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134
FREE valet parking will be provided.

RSVP:
(212) 445-8089 or
cancerandcareers@webershandwick.com

No tickets will be issued. Reservations for you and your guests will be held at the door.

The Balancing Cancer and Careers Seminar is a collaboration between Cancer and Careers, Genentech, the Cancer Support Community Greater Miami and the Young Survival Coalition Miami.

Annual Video Shoot

by Alice McKenney
filed under Beauty of Giving, luncheon, Video

Every year we put together a video that tells the story of someone balancing cancer and their job to highlight how important it is to support people working through treatment, it is then premiered at our annual Beauty of Giving fundraiser in December.  This year's video about Sue a YA survivor who worked the entire time she was in treatment is well underway, and recently we shot the raw footage with the film crew from Greener Media.  Check out some of the behind the scenes shots below!

Did you miss our video last year?  Watch it on YouTube here.

 

 

 

Want more pictures?  Then check out the Facebook photo album.

Balancing Cancer and Careers Seminar St. Louis!

by Laura Mosiello
filed under Balancing Cancer and Careers, CLRC, Community Seminar, St. Louis

This past Wednesday, July 21st, members of the Cancer and Careers team traveled to St. Louis for our Balancing Cancer and Careers Seminar at the Sheraton Clayton Plaza Hotel. This event was a collaboration among Cancer and Careers, Genentech, the Wellness Community of Greater St. Louis, the Cancer Support Community and the Young Survival Coalition.

This free, interactive seminar featured the expert advice of:

• Kate Sweeney, Executive Director, Cancer and Careers
• Dr. Steven Sorscher, Oncology Division, Washington University Medical Center
• Joanna Morales, Esq., Director, Cancer Legal Resource Center

The night was a tremendous success as panelists and participants exchanged information and stories surrounding the delicate balance of cancer and employment.

If you were present at the session or missed this event, please feel free to leave your questions and comments below and we will get back to you.
 

Kate Sweeney addressing the room

 

Our panel taking Q&A

 

Seattle, WA Balancing Cancer and Careers Seminar

by Alice McKenney
filed under Community Seminar, Seattle, Upcoming Events

We're excited to announce that we will be making our first trip to Seattle, WA to host our Balancing Cancer and Careers seminar.  If you're in the area, join us for this free interactive and educational event!

• Laura Mosiello, LCSW-R, Program Director and Senior Clinical Supervisor Cancer and Careers, will provide practical advice and concrete solutions for employees affected by cancer.
• Dr. Julie Gralow, Director of Breast Medical Oncology, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and Professor, Oncology Division, University of Washington School of Medicine, will discuss the value of working through treatment.
• Monica Fawzy, Esq., Cancer Legal Resource Center, will address patient rights in the workplace.

When:
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
6:00 PM
Refreshments will be provided.
Where:
Westin Seattle
1900 5th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101
FREE valet parking will be provided.

RSVP:
(212) 445-8348 or
cancerandcareers@webershandwick.com

No tickets will be issued. Reservations for you and your guests will be held at the door.

The Balancing Cancer and Careers Seminar is a collaboration between Cancer and Careers, Genentech, Gilda's Club Seattle, the Cancer Support Community and the Young Survival Coalition Seattle.

Disclosing your cancer on a job application

by Alice McKenney
filed under career coaching, Disclosure, Job application

Recently Kayleen asked a great question on our career coaching site: "I have just finished chemotherapy for colon cancer and need to find a job. What should I say on my application as to why I left my last job?" 

Rosalind, one of our careers coaches, was very frank saying "If the job application asks you directly about reasons for leaving your last job, then you clearly have three choices: tell the truth, lie or avoid a direct answer… I think the best response is to give a small bit of vague information. You might play around with: '...it was no longer a good fit' or '...the job had changed and was no longer a good fit'." Click here to continue reading Rosalind's advice.

If you are dealing with addressing your illness on your resume rather than in a job application, it can often come down to tweaking it to make gaps in employment due to cancer treatment less obvious. For instance, only including the years you were employed by a company rather than months as well. For more on this, check out some of our sample resumes here and here.

And don't forget, if you want personalized advice, our career coaches are always available here!

Women and men share their work and cancer experiences

by Alice McKenney
filed under In the news, Online Diary, Share your story

Occasionally in the news you hear about a cancer survivor's experience with their workplace.  Sometimes it's a great example of the survivor and their workplace working really well together (such as this Georgia sheriff's experience) and other times it's less positive resulting in the survivor leaving their job or being forced to take legal action.

Regardless of the story, sharing your cancer and work experience is beneficial, both to you and those reading it.  Writing about your experiences can be really therapeutic, allowing you to step back and think about everything that you've gone through and hopefully help someone else in the process.  On the flipside, reading someone's survivor story can be inspiring and uplifting, or if the experience was less than positive it can help show you what challenges and pitfalls to look out for while navigating your workplace.

There are many websites that offer you the chance to share your story and read others (such as MyHopeSpace and Blog For A Cure) but our Online Diary is the only place on the web where you can read more than 75 personal stories about working through cancer.  Please read some of the stories today, or share your own!

Meet the Cancer and Careers Staff, Part 5!

by Laura Mosiello
filed under Laura Mosiello, Meet the Staff, Program Director, Senior Clinical Supervisor

Hi Everyone! It’s my first week as part of the Cancer and Careers team. I’m happy to report I am the 5th staff member to come aboard and I am assuming the role of Program Director and Senior Clinical Supervisor. I will be responsible for a wide array of programmatic tasks, which includes facilitating the launch of our Young Adult Support Group in September as well as our ongoing Cancer Support Group. Apart from Cancer and Careers, everyone knows that I love my dog Spalding, reality TV and a good laugh when my favorite comics are in town performing.

And don't forget to virtually meet the other members of the Cancer and Careers team!  Below are links to our four other Meet The Staff blogs.

Kate Sweeney, Executive Director

Rebecca Nellis, Director of Programs

Devon Slauenwhite, Director of Development

Alice McKenney, Foundation Coordinator

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Advocates for More Oral Chemo Insurance Coverage

by Kate Sweeney
filed under Cancer advocacy, chemotherapy, Leukemia Lymphoma Society, LLS, Oral Chemo

Thanks Leukemia & Lymphoma Society!

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has tirelessly advocated to get legislation passed that would direct health insurance companies to cover oral chemotherapy drugs at a cost equal to what is charged for intravenous (IV) therapies.

And on Tuesday, June 22, their efforts paid off. The New York State Senate passed legislation that directs private health insurance companies in New York to cover oral chemotherapy drugs at a cost equal to thier intravenous (IV) counterparts.

Since they don't require lengthy visits to the treatment facilities, oral chemotherapies can be the most convenient option for working people with cancer. But the costs are often higher than IV chemos. This legislation will make oral chemotherapies more affordable for cancer patients.

Thanks Leukemia & Lymphoma Society for leading the charge in this important piece of legislation!

 

Cancer Organization Spotlight: First Descents

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Brad Ludden, Cancer, Cancer Organization Spotlight, First Descents, Young Adults

Periodically we like to spotlight organizations we think are doing innovative and important work, today we'd like to introduce First Descents. 

First Descents is committed to curing young adults of the emotional effects of cancer and empowering them to regain control of their lives by experiencing whitewater kayaking and other challenging adventure sports in a safe, fun and supportive environment.  Having met a number of past participants, I can safely say that not only do they create bonds with each other that last well past the trip but the confidence they gain from conquering these physical challenges resonates into all areas of their lives.  Founded by professional kayaker Brad Ludden in 2000, the orgranization has served more than 600 young adults with cancer.  Today they run nine programs in six states all of them free of charge to participants.

For more information please visit: www.firstdescents.org/

 

 

Chicago Cancer Rights Conference

by Alice McKenney
filed under Balancing Cancer and Careers seminar, Cancer Legal Resource Center, Chicago Cancer Event, CLRC

This past Friday, June 18th, was the Chicago Cancer Rights Conference.  Hosted by the Cancer Legal Resource Center, it included many sessions such as Employment and Taking Time Off Work, Getting and Keeping Health Insurance, Navigating Managed Care, Estate Planning, and Disability and Life Insurance Options.

Cancer and Careers was proud to host the Employment and Taking Time Off Work session.  Our speakers included (left to right):

• Rebecca Nellis, Director of Programs, Cancer and Careers, who provided practical advice and concrete solutions for employees affected by cancer.
• Chadi Nabhan, M.D., F.A.C.P., Director, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, who discussed the value of working through treatment.
• Dianne Prado, Esq., Cancer Legal Resource Center, who addressed patient rights in the workplace.

Kudos to our panelists and moderator Joanna Morales, Esq. of the CLRC -- the session was really well received, and there was so many questions that our session ran over! 

If you were at the session (or even if you missed it!) feel free to leave your questions/comments below and we will be sure to get back to you.  And for more pictures check out our Facebook album: http://www.facebook.com/CancerandCareers#!/album.php?aid=180834&id=18305564790&ref=mf.

 

 

When Your Boss Has Cancer...

by Kate Sweeney
filed under boss, Cancer, mentor, Work

Recently, we received this email which so eloquently pointed out an aspect of cancer in the workplace that is rarely addressed:

"My boss is the one with cancer. Not only are we watching our friend and boss die before our eyes, but we are slowly losing our champion, protector, advocate, go-to person, and mentor. How can we ask for a day off to play when she is so ill? Or approve a training seminar when her world is filled with issues so much more pressing than grant writing? We are also plagued with thoughts of what will come "after" and who will be our next boss - a dreadful thought." 

So what do you do when your boss has cancer? We consulted the experts to find out, and have a great new article for you:

http://www.cancerandcareers.org/coworkers/Boss_with_cancer/

Need to get your blood flowing? Three exercises you can do at your desk

by Alice McKenney
filed under Desk, Exercises, Nutrition, On The Go Guides

These exercises will not only help reduce wrist and shoulder strain from long days at your computer, they will also improve flexibility and reduce stress.

1. SHOULDER SHRUG: Place arms down alongside the body and breathe in through the nose. Raise shoulders to your ears and hold for five seconds; as you breathe out through the lips, push shoulders down and engage your back muscles; hold for five seconds.  Repeat two times.
2. SHOULDER AND UPPER BACK TONE AND TIGHTEN: Breathe in and as your breathe out, raise arms out to the sides, palms facing down.  Force the arms back and up to create tension; hold for ten seconds, then release arms and move them back to the sides.  Repeat four times.
3. THE SWIM: Place both arms out in front, palms facing each other.  Breathe in as you sweep your arms to the sides of the body parallel to the floor and push back.  Breathe out as you bring your arms forward.  Repeat five times.

These exercises were excerpted from our 3-part On The Go Guide Series.  These brochures feature tips on Nutrition, Fitness and Make-Up.  To download or order for free, visit this page: http://cancerandcareers.org/publications/.

Upcoming FREE events in Chicago, Washington, DC, and St. Louis

by Alice McKenney
filed under Beauty of Caring, Cancre Rights Conference, Chicago, Community Seminar, St. Louis, Upcoming Events, Washington DC



Making Sense of Health Reform Laws

by Kate Sweeney
filed under health insurance, health reform, legal

For anyone wanting to keep abreast of how the new and upcoming health reforms will effect people with cancer, consider the National Health Reform Law and Policy Project (http://www.gwumc.edu/sphhs/departments/healthpolicy/healthReform/Cancer/) your goto source.

This collaboration between Pfizer and George Washington University translates national health reform legislative proposals into clear terms with a special focus on cancer. Not exactly a quick read, but very comprehensive and updated frequently.

Website Poll Results

by Alice McKenney
filed under Disclosing, Fatigue, Flexible schedule, Poll, Re-entering workforce, Results

We have been running monthly polls on our website about some of the issues that often come up when dealing with work and cancer.  Though not surprising, the results have certainly been interesting, often confirming things we already know anecdotally.  Our users are challenged by fatigue at work, concerned about not being seen as an equal contributor to their work teams and wishing for greater flexibility as they transition back into their jobs.   Please see below for some of our poll results, and refer to these articles for more info on these issues:

Working Through the Side Effects

What's Next: Back to Work After Cancer

---

What has been the most challenging side effect to manage at work for you (or your patients)?

Fatigue: 47.76%
Nausea and vomiting: 6.94%
Pain: 7.76%
Hair loss: 11.43%

---

What worries you (or your patients) the most about disclosing cancer to co-workers?

Not much: 14.46%
How much to share: 22.15%
Communicating my needs: 9.54%
Setting boundaries: 8.00%
Being seen as not being able to pull my weight: 45.85%

---

What is most important to successfully re-entering the workplace following a cancer diagnosis?

Having a flexible schedule: 50.24%
Stress management: 18.48%
Communication with my supervisor: 19.91%
A knowledgeable human resources department: 11.37%

---

For more poll results and to take this month's poll click here: http://cancerandcareers.org/polls/

Lost your job? Tips to help you get back on your feet

by Alice McKenney
filed under cancer law, fired, In the news, Job Search, Legal Issues, lost job, networking, new job

Last week an article appeared in the Chicago Sun-Times that showed how quickly things can change at work after a cancer diagnosis, sometimes for the better, in this case for the worse.  Margaret Walsh had been in her position at a community college for four months when she got an ovarian and abdominal cancer diagnosis in February of 2009.  The school then gave her 3 months of unpaid leave, after which she returned to work part-time.

Less than a month later she was told she would have to return to work full-time. However, she then became seriously ill and had to take another unpaid leave.  It was at that point that she received a termination letter from the college.

When something like this happens, our first suggestion is always to suggest the person contact a lawyer (we refer to  the Cancer Legal Resource Center), however sometimes there isn't really a legal issue on the table.  See below for some tips on what to do after you've lost your job.

• Get back on the horse and start looking for new jobs in your desired field.  If you are still in treatment you will want to consider going on COBRA until you have secured a new position.  For more information on COBRA visit: http://www.dol.gov/dol/topic/health-plans/cobra.htm.
• Worried about how to handle employers questions about why you left your previous position? There are some great tips on our career coaching site (scroll to the bottom of the page): http://cancerandcareers.org/career-coaching/looking-for-a-new-position-while-in-treatment/
• Having trouble securing interviews?  Networking is a great option, and most jobs are found this way.  See our networking tips here: http://cancerandcareers.org/career-coaching/keep-your-network-alive/.
• Don't forget about our Job Search Tools, which are free and easy to use: http://cancerandcareers.org/career-coaching/job-search-tools/

If you want personalized assistance with the job search, please contact  our career coaches here: http://cancerandcareers.org/career-coaching/.

 

For more information on Margaret Walsh situation's see the full article here: http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/2284970,CST-NWS-eeoc18.article.

 

 

Job Search Question at OMG! Cancer Summit for Young Adults

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Cancer, i2y, Job Search, Legal Issues, OMG Summit, Work

Yesterday, the first question the Employment and Insurance panel was asked at the OMG! Cancer Summit was "Can you address some of the pertinent issues surrounding the job search process for the young adult cancer population?" Laura Mosiello (from CancerCare), Joanna Morales (from the Cancer Legal Resource Center) and I all had plenty of thoughts on the topic. Rather than paraphrase, I thought I would share this video clip. The visual quality is low despite the mighty efforts of the flip camera wielding Alice McKenney but the sound is excellent. Down the road a high quality version of the entire conference will be available for viewing but for those of you who need this information now, I didn't want to wait.

 

 

For additional resources for your job search, check out: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/career-coaching/job-search-tools/

Another fantastic year of Workout in the Park!

by Devon Slauenwhite
filed under Cancer, SELF Magazine, workout

In between cancer conference travel, we’ve also managed to hit the NYC and Chicago SELF Magazine Workout in the Park events. It’s always such a great day – flocks of women of all shapes, ages and sizes coming together for a day of fun workouts and a little pampering! Each year these events get better and better and I always leave feeling so happy and body-positive. Big congratulations to the team at SELF for another amazing series, and a HUGE thank-you for choosing us as a beneficiary for the fifth year in a row!

See below for some photos of us setting up shop (and check out our snazzy new CAC t-shirts!)
 

 

 

We've been on the move!

by Alice McKenney
filed under AOSW, Conference, ONS, Speaking

 

It's conference season and this past week Cancer and Careers has been on the move. The Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW) conference was in Phoenix, where we had an exhibit AND hosted a session so that social workers could better advise their patients on balancing work and cancer treatment.  Also on the west coast, the Oncology Nursing Society's (ONS) Annual Congress was in San Diego, and we had a booth there as well.

Since there are only 4 of us on staff, we had to divide and conquer, with 2 of us going to AOSW and 2 of us going to ONS.  Both of these conferences are great ways for us to let healthcare professionals know more about the services that we offer, while also hearing more about what needs they have and what issues they encounter everyday.  (Not to mention that these are also great ways for us to catch up with new and old friends at other non-profits!)

Below are some pictures from our session at AOSW, and then a few pictures from our ONS booth.  Want to see more?  Become our fan on Facebook, where we post albums of pictures from the various events we go to (this past week's events will be going up in the next day or two).

Our speakers (L to R) Joanna Morales (Cancer Legal Resource Center), Kate Sweeney (Cancer and Careers), Laura Mosiello (CancerCare)

 

Attendees at our AOSW session

 

Our booth at San Diego ONS

 

NEW Job Search Tools

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Cancer and Careers, Coaching, Interviewing, Job Search, Work

 

We get asked nearly every day about how to manage a job search during or after cancer treatment.  We have created a battery of resources to help you think through everything from resume building to interviewing and tracking your contacts.

 

Job Search Tools

• Interview Cheat Sheet: Fill in this template for each job interview; it will help prepare you and provide an easy cheat-sheet to have in front of you during the interview in case you get nervous or feel stuck.
• Networking Tracker: As you attend events or connect with new contacts plug their names into this networking spreadsheet. Then use it to keep track of people to follow-up with; that way their information is easily accessible (and stored in one place). Besides being good relationship building, the majority of jobs are found from connections like these.
• Case Studies: Often cancer survivors have similar experiences regarding work. We’ve got ready-made responses for two of the most common issues: disclosing the disease to your workplace, and dealing with the gaps your resume may have from treatment. Check out our case studies here and here.
• Sample Resumes: Depending on what your treatment plan looked like you may have some gaps in your resume. Check out two sample resumes to see what kind of resume style works best for you (located here and here).
• Online Career Coaching Center: Your one-stop shop for career advice. Submit your question or situation to our pro bono career coaches for advice, or read questions and responses that other survivors have asked. Every post gets a response, and the service is completely free. http://www.cancerandcareers.org/career-coaching/
 

Legal and Insurance Issues Teleconference and The Stupid Cancer Show

by Alice McKenney
filed under Appearance, Healthcare Professionals, Radio, Stupid Cancer Show, Teleconference

 

Last Thursday was the final session of our 2010 Educational Series for Healthcare Professionals.  The session, titled Legal and Insurance Issues to Consider with speaker Joanna Morales, Esq. from the Cancer Legal Resource Center (http://www.cancerlegalresourcecenter.org) covered everything from the federal and state laws that protect employees, to legislation and options that govern insurance.  This presentation, as well as all previous ones, are archived on our website for viewing here: http://cancerandcareers.org/healthcare_professionals/videos/

Also last week -- Cancer and Careers had its inaugural appearance on The Stupid Cancer Show!  With over 55,000 listeners, The Stupid Cancer Show is the voice of young adults with cancer.  Our very own Rebecca Nellis participated on an Employment and Insurance roundtable with CancerCare's Laura Mosiello and The Cancer Legal Resource Center's Joanna Morales.  Don't worry if you missed the show -- the recording is available here or for download on iTunes.
 

Great Tools for Telecommuting

by Kate Sweeney
filed under flexible work schedules, flextime, telecommuting, working from home

 

Telecommuting can be a great accommodation for employees with cancer, allowing you to avoid a lengthy commute, take a quick rest when needed. But setting up a successful telecommuting arrangement involves more than just a laptop. This article from Blue Avocado, Telecommuting and Flexible Work Arrangements: Do them Right (http://www.blueavocado.org/node/517) takes a look at the telecommuting from the employers side, so you'll know what you need to do and say to make your supervisor comfortable with the arrangement. It also gives a sample Telecommuting Agreement that you and your supervisor can use to make sure all the details are discussed, agreed to and down in writing. Good for you; good for your boss.

CAC on the Stupid Cancer Show - Tonight!

by Alice McKenney
filed under Employment, Insurance, Radio, Stupid Cancer Show, YA, Young Adults

 

Tonight's The Stupid Cancer Show LIVE at 9pm EST with Matthew Zachary, co-host Lisa Bernhard and doofus Jack Bouffard, deals with Employment and Insurance Issues.  The show will include:

Survivor spotlight

• Eric Anthony Galvez

Special guests

• Rebecca Nellis (Cancer and Careers)
• Joanna Morales (Cancer Legal Resource Center)
• Laura Mosiello (CancerCare)

For more information: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/stupidcancershow/2010/05/04/omg-employmentinsurance

On the path to recovery

by Alice McKenney
filed under article, New normal, recovery, side effects, support groups

 

For most cancer patients, the first question they have is "Will I live?"  And for many their second question is "Can I work?"  As aptly pointed out in a recent article in the San Diego Union-Tribune, "the stress of the disease doesn’t necessarily end with the chemotherapy… Former cancer patients are often expected to bounce back into their old routines as if normalcy returns as readily as a head of hair. But it’s more complicated than that."

Work can play a huge role in this return to normalcy both when a person works during treatment or upon his/her return after a leave of absence, but it can certainly come with its fair share of challenges.  One of the most common ones we hear about is managing residual side effects like "chemo brain" and exhaustion while still being a valued member of a work team.  And, the other major challenge for some survivors is discovering that their priorities have changed since cancer and they are looking for new personal and professional directions.   

For more on side effects visit here and to hear a social worker discuss the "new normal" listen to this session of our Educational series.

The article also discusses the importance of outside support, particularly support groups.  For assistance in finding a support group check out these listings in our database: http://cancerandcareers.org/resources/search?subcategory_id=55016
Also if you live near New York City, Cancer and Careers hosts our own support group - for more information please email cancerandcareers@cew.org.
 

Cancer Organization Spotlight: Imerman Angels

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Cancer Organization Spotlight, Imerman Angels

 

We first got to know Imerman Angels when we met its charming and energetic founder Jonny (Imerman) at a conference a couple years ago. Since then we've been amazed to discover that Jonny is literally everywhere we go and takes his role as the Chief Mission Officer to the limit. Including the fact that we have never seen him don a shirt that didn't have his logo on it… ever!

Jonny, who was diagnosed with testicular cancer in his 20s, had lots of support from friends and family but didn't know anyone in a similar situation to his. So he founded Imerman Angels on this premise: "What if every cancer fighter could talk to a cancer survivor, who not only had beaten the same type of cancer, but who also was the same age and gender as the fighter?” The cancer survivor would be an angel walking, living proof that the fighter could win too.

Imerman Angels is for anyone dealing with cancer, from fighters and survivors, to caregivers and loved ones. Their philosophy of making connections as an act of empowering cancer patients is a simple but effective one. Just check out some of the testimonials on their website: http://www.imermanangels.org/testimonials.php.

Interested in being matched up with someone? Then fill out this form, and they will contact you.
 

Beauty of Caring Event in Boston

by Alice McKenney
filed under Beauty of Caring, Boston, Event, SELF Magazine, Shiseido

 

Cancer and Careers had it's inaugural trip to Boston last night to try out a brand new event with partners SELF Magazine and Shiseido Cosmetics: The Beauty of Caring Event.  Attendees went to 3 mini-seminars, which included:

• A roundtable with one of our Career Coaches, Julie Jansen
• A session teaching them wellness tips and chair exercises they could do at work
• A facial massage and makeup techniques lesson

Everyone who I spoke to at the event really enjoyed it!  We hope to do similar events in different cities soon. 

Here are some pictures from the event, but I have posted an album with more on our Facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3709673&id=18305564790#!/album.php?aid=165662&id=18305564790.

Cancer and Careers roundtable

 

Shiseido makeovers

 

SELF wellness room

 

Balancing Cancer and Careers Seminar in Atlanta, GA

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Atlanta, Cancer and Careers, Cancer Legal Resource Center, Community Seminar, Wellness Community, Young Survival

 

Cancer and Careers made its first trip to Atlanta last week to present a panel discussion on the practical, medical and legal aspects of working during and after cancer treatment.  Our experts included:

• Kate Sweeney, Executive Director, Cancer and Careers
• Dr. Bassel El-Rayes, Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University
• Joanna Morales, Esq., Director, Cancer Legal Resource Center
 

The Balancing Cancer and Careers Seminar in Atlanta was a collaboration between Cancer and Careers, Genentech, the Wellness Community Atlanta, the Cancer Support Community and the Young Survival Coalition Atlanta.  See below for some pictures from the event:

 

 

Re-entering the Workforce After Short and Long Absences - Teleconference Recap

by Alice McKenney
filed under Educational Series, Healthcare Professionals, Re-entering the workforce, Teleconference

 

The 2nd session of our 2010 Educational Series for Healthcare Professionals on April 1st was led by Julie Jansen, Executive and Career Coach and Author (and also one of the CAC career coaches!), and Laura Mosiello LCSW-R, Director of Women's Cancer at CancerCare. Titled "Re-entering the Workforce After Short and Long Absences", it covered a wide variety of issues including what steps to take when seeking new employment, creating an effective resume, and interview tips.

One of the hardest questions that came up during the call was from a caller wanting to know how best to stay motivated during treatment and then jumpstarting back into work when treatment is over, all while being self-employed.

Julie Jansen: I think one of the things I would do is just very quickly put together a little informal advisory group of friends or colleagues who may do what you do and have a little brainstorming session.  You may even want to make it somewhat social and just get a small group of four to six people you trust together and say, "Here's my issue.  What would you suggest to get started?"  I would also start setting up at least two to four sort of networking meetings a week with people. 

Laura Mosiello: Another thing you might want to think about is going to any industry events, networking events, just to kind of get yourself out there, get excited about the industry, just get talking to people.

We had a great turnout of Healthcare Professionals calling in to learn more about this important topic and its impact for their patients. Our speakers did a great job and feedback so far has been really positive! If you missed the session be sure to check out the archive of it here: http://cancerandcareers.org/healthcare_professionals/videos/details?vid=11363001.

Don't forget we have one more session of our Educational Series for Healthcare Professionals coming up, click here for more information and to register.

This week is National Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Awareness Week, New Resources, Young Adults

 

There are approximately 70,000 people aged 15-39 diagnosed with cancer every year. As part of the Livestrong Young Adult Alliance and as a session host and presenter at this year's OMG! Cancer Summit for Young Adults (May 23 in NYC), Cancer and Careers is working hard to address the practical employment related issues that YAs with cancer are facing.

Our newest tools include an interview cheat sheet and case studies of two of the most common questions our career coaches get asked about working through treatment:

http://www.cancerandcareers.org/women/charts_checklists/download/job_search/jobinterviewtips.pdf?version_id=11443001
http://www.cancerandcareers.org/women/charts_checklists/download/case_studies/casestudy_jane.pdf?version_id=11439001
http://www.cancerandcareers.org/women/charts_checklists/download/case_studies/casestudy_linda.pdf?version_id=11441002

To register for the OMG! Cancer Summit for Young Adults: http://omgsummit.org/2010/index.html
 

Workout to Support Cancer and Careers!

by Devon Slauenwhite
filed under Cancer, Event, Fundraiser, SELF, Workout in the Park

SELF Magazine's Annual Workout In The Park

Cancer and Careers is thrilled to be a beneficiary of these incredible events for the 4th year in a row. If you're in any of the below cities, grab a friend and come workout for a great cause, and stop by CAC's booth to say hi! Click here to learn more and buy tickets.

Where: San Diego
When: April 24, 2010; 11:00 AM

Where: New York City
When: May 8, 2010; 11:00 AM

Where: Chicago
When: May 15, 2010; 11:00 AM

Cancer and Careers coming to Boston and Atlanta in April

by Alice McKenney
filed under Atlanta, Beauty of Caring, Boston, Community Seminar, Upcoming Events

 

Cancer and Careers has hit the ground running for 2010 - literally! We're going to be on the road a lot this year, reaching our audience nationwide.  Up first this month: Boston, MA and Atlanta, GA.  See below for more info on these great FREE events.  We hope to see you there!

Balancing Cancer and Careers Community Seminars

When:  Wednesday, April 14, 2010; 5:30 PM
Where: Westin Buckhead, 3391 Peachtree Road N.E., Atlanta, GA 30326
What: A FREE educational seminar featuring expert advice on combining work and cancer treatment

Click here for details, and stay tuned for information on our upcoming seminars in St. Louis, Seattle, and Miami.

The Balancing Cancer and Careers Seminars are a collaboration between Cancer and Careers, Genentech, the Wellness Community Atlanta, the Cancer Support Community and the Young Survival Coalition Atlanta.

The Cancer and Careers Beauty of Caring Event

Everything a working woman with cancer needs to know to look better, work better, feel better.

• Resume makeovers, interview tips and career coaching from Cancer and Careers
• Self-instruction on facial massage and makeup application techniques with Shiseido beauty experts
• Relaxation and wellness tips from SELF Magazine

When: April 21, 2010; 6:00 PM
Where: Liberty Hotel, 215 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114
RSVP: cancerandcareers@cew.org or 646-929-8095

Click here for details, and stayed tuned for information on two more Beauty of Caring events, in New York and Washington, D.C.!

The Beauty of Caring Event is a collaboration between Cancer and Careers, Shiseido Cosmetics America and SELF Magazine.

Sonia Kashuk: Family, the cancer 'club', and working through treatment

by Cancer and Careers Guest Blogger
filed under Guest Blogger, Sonia Kashuk

 

The most challenging thing about having cancer is having cancer…That you are in the “club” that you don’t necessarily want to be in. Just the word “cancer” always freaked me out because it always had such a dark cloud around it. I think that cancer today allows people to live long lives and survive, as opposed to cancer years ago. I also find it incredibly difficult being a patient at Sloan Kettering, although it is an outstanding institution, it is strictly a cancer hospital; you face the word everywhere you turn. That was one of the most difficult parts, actually being in the halls and space of Sloan Kettering. I think initially when you are diagnosed you tend to reflect and you think about all the things you want to do with your life and the changes you want to make. And every day you think about the word cancer. As time heals and evolves you work your way back into your day-to-day routine.

Today I do not think about the word cancer on a daily basis. I have always been relatively healthy, eating well and exercising minimally 5 times a week.  The importance of diet and exercise to maintain a healthy body and healthy mind has really become a stronger focus for me.

I tried to find the positive lining in all the darkness and felt I could put out a positive message. I tried to take the whole experience into the most positive light. My mother, who is also a breast cancer survivor of 30 years, was a great role model. I have seen the survival side of cancer. I had a strong family history so it was something that was very prominent in my life. I told everyone and had no secrets, and everyone who surrounded me was amazing and incredibly supportive. They were there to help in any way possible. Everybody truly helped to move me through this difficult time.

I personally think the best thing you can do is work. In my experience in dealing with friends who have gone through treatment, those who would go straight from treatment right back to work survived the treatment better than those who didn’t. When you don’t work and are unable to keep your mind busy I tend to see people become depressed and consumed. When you have something to keep your mind off of the cancer and how you are feeling, it helps to keep moving you through the long process of recovery.
 

This is Sonia Kashuk's second guest blog for Cancer and Careers.  Sonia is the President of Sonia Kashuk Inc., and is on the Cancer and Careers/CEW Foundation Board.

Sonia Kashuk: Diagnosis and the decision to work

by Cancer and Careers Guest Blogger
filed under Guest Blogger, Sonia Kashuk

 

I clearly remember receiving the phone call in May 2006 from my doctor telling me that I had stage 1 breast cancer. I was home alone and once I heard the word cancer everything else seemed to go dead and muffled and I just kept hearing cancer reverberating in my mind. She began talking about different courses for treatment. I told her I had to call her back the next day so I could process the news I just received. I immediately called my brother (who is a surgeon) and he basically reiterated what the doctor had told me: that I was diagnosed very early and that I would be fine. At that point I had to go into overdrive and put mind over matter. You have to stay as positive as possible. In a weird way you move into attack zone and aggressively conquer the challenges that you have in front of you. One thing that I think really helped me was working out. It was a savior for me. Even going into the surgery, all the exercise helped to metabolize the anesthesia and really helped to get me through it all.
 
Luckily, because I was diagnosed early I had a very good long-term prognosis. I chose the most aggressive course of treatment: a bi-lateral mastectomy. I had been in the Sloan Kettering High Surveillance Program for 6 years prior to my diagnosis, and I knew it was not if I was going to be diagnosed with cancer but when. Because I was being screened every 3-6 months I didn’t want to have to go through the continued screening process so I chose the most radical and aggressive treatment so that I would have no fear of cancer again. I did not consider stepping away from work. Work was my saving grace and gave me the opportunity to focus on something other than myself. At that point I realized that all I wanted to do was make women feel better about themselves. It gave me the chance to make something negative become a positive by speaking about my experience with breast cancer. I did a 2-step process because I knew I had to schedule some time off and I truly did not have time to set aside until September. So, I initially did a lumpectomy to remove the cancer and then in September, once my kids were back to school, I did my double mastectomy so I would be able to schedule 2 weeks of down time.
 
Getting a cancer diagnosis is no longer the death call it used to be. It can shake you up, but it challenges you to put on your bravest face and become a strong tough warrior who survives it all.
 

This is the first guest blog from Sonia Kashuk.  Sonia is the President of Sonia Kashuk Inc., and is on the Cancer and Careers/CEW Foundation Board.

Is the Virtual Office the Future?

by Alice McKenney
filed under Flexible scheduling, Virtual Office, Work Environment

 

Many people are aware that cancer patients can often benefit from a flexible work schedule, between scheduling appointments, treatments and necessary downtime. And now, there is finally a study that proves that a flexible work environment is needed to counterbalance stress in today's office environment - for everyone, not just cancer patients!

59% of survey respondents said that spending less time in the office and instead working some from home would have a positive effect on staff morale. This is yet more proof that the work-life balance is becoming more desirable to all populations. And with emerging technologies paving the way, the virtual office is more attainable than ever.

For more information about flexible scheduling click here.
To continue reading about this new virtual office trend click here.

Spring Forward With Special Discounts During Spa Week!

by Devon Slauenwhite
filed under Fundraiser, Spa, Week

 

Reservations officially open for Spa Week!

Spa Week will be taking place April 12th-18th all over the country including Arizona, Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Florida, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Long Island, Minnesota, New Jersey, Nashville, New York, North Carolina, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, San Antonio, San Francisco, San Diego, Seattle, Virginia Beach, Toronto, Canada. All participating spas are offering $50 massages, facials, and other spa treatments with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Cancer and Careers!

 

Click here to make your appointment. Just like Restaurant Week, the best times and places book early!
 

Cancer Organization Spotlight: Spirit Jump

by Alice McKenney
filed under Cancer, Jump, Organization, Spirit, Spotlight

 

Spirit Jump is a non-profit cancer organization founded in 2007 that I discovered through Twitter.  Thanks to their grassroots efforts, active supporters, and straightforward mission they have become quite popular and are filling a niche that truly touches all of those that it reaches. 

How it started: Meaghan Edelstein went through treatment for cervical cancer, including many bouts of radiation, chemo, and surgeries.  While in the hospital many people visited her, but she also received many cards and gifts along the way. Meaghan credits these small touches of love with giving her the extra strength to keep fighting for her life.  While blogging about her experience, Meghan decided that she wanted to make a difference and help others in similar situations.  Remembering the cards and gifts she received and how they lifted her spirits during a desperate time, Meaghan decided to match those who wished to help with those who needed support. Thus began SPIRIT JUMP.

Their mission: Spirit Jump is a grassroots non-profit organization with a mission to provide hope and comfort to the many men, women and children battling cancer. Spirit Jump accomplishes this by providing uplifting cards and inspirational gifts during this most difficult time.

Sign up to receive these little gifts (Request a Jump) or help a person battling cancer (Become a Jumper) today.

Many survivors can feel overwhelmed when balancing work and cancer treatment, and this is just one more way that you can help (or be helped)!  (And if your friend or co-worker is in cancer treatment check out this page to see how you can help them directly.)

Practical Advice and Tools to Balance Cancer and Employment -Teleconference Recap

by Alice McKenney
filed under Educational, healthcare, Professionals, Recap, Series

 

Last week was the first session of our 2010 Educational Series for Healthcare Professionals led by Rebecca Nellis, Director of Programs at Cancer and Careers, and Laura Mosiello, Director of Women's Cancer at CancerCare.  Titled "Practical Advice and Tools to Balance Cancer and Employment", it covered a wide variety of issues including how to share the news in the workplace, creating a workable schedule, and getting back to 'normal'.  

One of the hardest questions that came up during the call was from a healthcare professional wanting to know how to advise the patients she sees who are manual laborers, which makes going back to work much more challenging especially since those jobs on top of being physically taxing are also often without insurance or paid time off.

Laura Mosiello:    I have a few patients in this predicament. Since I know that they use their body as a tool or perhaps work in a factory, is there some other job that they can do and still be employed by that employer, if they chose?  Or if they are self-employed I think that may be a point where they would want to contact Cancer and Careers and speak to a free career coach, someone who's gone through it and perhaps can walk them through and assess what their skills are. At that point they may need to reinvent themselves.

Rebecca Nellis:    This a question that we certainly get a lot and there is no readymade answer and it's challenging across the spectrum. It’s important to keep in mind that a career coach isn’t just for someone who goes and sits at a desk every day, but rather that a career coach is someone who can help you think about your work life and that is encompassing of everyone, in all positions.  Unfortunately, I don't have an immediate solution to that, especially since those jobs are often hourly, self-employed, or not insured. But I would start by talking to someone who might be able to reframe their experiences.  

We had a record number of Healthcare Professionals call in to learn more about this important topic and its impact for their patients. Our speakers did a great job and feedback so far has been really positive!  If you missed the session be sure to check out the archive of it here: http://cancerandcareers.org/healthcare_professionals/videos/details?vid=10999001.

Don't forget we have two more session of our Educational Series for Healthcare Professionals coming up, click here for more information.

Where the Wigs Are

by Kate Sweeney
filed under City, new, Salons, Wigs, York

 

If there's one thing I've learned while working at Cancer and Careers, it's to never underestimate the devastation of losing your hair during cancer treatment. Or underestimate the power of a great wig. So when a friend of Cancer and Careers' recently asked where her co-worker could find a wig for her mother who had cancer, we hunted down the best in New York.  Our recommendations:

Bits and Pieces
1841 Broadway, Suite 201
(60th and Columbus Circle)
212-397-0711
http://www.newyorksocialdiary.com/node/198

Joseph Paris
45 East 34th Street, 4th Floor
212-889-4500
http://www.josephparis.com/

Karen’s Wigs
1776 Broadway, Suite 1708
212-977-2555
www.karenswigs.com

For info on wig buying, check out: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/women/appearances/5018/

For online wig resources, click here: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/resources/search

Flexible work conditions

by Alice McKenney
filed under Flexible, Options, Schedule, Work

 

A recent study in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews has found that having flexible work conditions can lead employees to feel healthier in addition to feeling less crazed.  Specifically, a blog on TIME.com states that more flexibility in work schedules is associated with improvements in alertness, sleep quality, tiredness, heart rate and other primary health issues, as well as benefits to secondary health, such as perceived social support in the workplace and sense of community.

 

We often recommend cancer patients talk to their supervisors about flexible work options when they are going through treatment. The three most common flexible work options are:

1) Working from home, part or full-time. This can eliminate a draining commute, or enable you to lie down when necessary.

2) Implement a full-time but flexible schedule, so you can continue to work full time but a) vary the start and end times of your work day

OR b) take time out during the work day to go to appointments and make the time up by coming to work earlier or working late some nights.

3) Work a part-time schedule during all or part of treatment and recovery.

 

While both the Cochrane study and the TIME.com article discuss flexible work options in relation to the health of the general population, it is important to understand that in addition to the flexible work benefits they outline, cancer patients reap even more benefits. Flexible work options can help you deal with medication side effects, fatigue, and fitting doctor's appointments into your schedule. While not the only way to make these things easier to handle, it certainly is a helpful one. 

For more information on flexible options, as well as planning a course of action, check out this article. 

American Psychosocial Oncology Society Conference

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under American, Cancer, Careers, legal, LIVESTRONG, oncology, Psychosocial, Society

 

A delicious beignet and cafe au lait from Cafe Du Monde in New Orleans

From the beignets and café au lait at Café Du Monde to the sweet potato fries at K-Paul's Louisiana Kitchen, New Orleans was a welcoming host of this year's APOS conference.

Besides spending time with some of Cancer and Careers' favorite people (the Cancer Legal Resource Center's Joanna Morales and Livestrong's Melissa Sileo and Haley Justice), the conference offered a great opportunity to meet new people from all over the country and talk about what CAC is doing now and its plans for the next few years.

It also gave me the chance to learn about a couple interesting studies related to financial distress for patients and career development issues for survivors of childhood/adolescent cancers.

The Cancer and Careers booth all set up in the exhibit hall

The crown jewel of the conference was the opening plenary session with Dr. Harold Freeman, the President of the Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care and Prevention (http://www.ralphlaurencenter.org/about_president.asp?langid=1) and the founder of patient navigation (http://www.hpfreemanpni.org/). He has truly changed the face of patient care and championed the need to address disparities in treatment, it was inspiring to listen to him speak!

Program for Healthcare Pros

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Cancer, Careers, legal, Navigators, Nurses, oncology, Patient, Social, treatment, Work, Workers

 

For many patients the most accessible and trusted source of information is a healthcare provider, who is often unprepared to answer questions about working through treatment. Patients who are not offered information on managing work issues associated with their cancer are four times more likely to report that their work life has suffered because of their cancer.

Cancer and Careers created the Educational Series for Healthcare Professionals to educate this vital audience on all critical aspects of combining work and treatment.

During the development of the Cancer and Careers Educational Series for Healthcare Professionals, CAC conducted a registrant needs assessment survey. In addition to providing valuable content guidance, the survey results confirmed the need to equip Healthcare Professionals with credible information developed specifically for them – in fact 79% of respondents said their patients with cancer ask for guidance on working through treatment. AND 97% of participants from the 2009 sessions said that the information they received could be used in their day-to-day interactions with their patients.

Join us for this year's session by registering using the below links:

March 4th, 2010 Practical Advice and Tools to Balance Cancer and Employment
Speakers: Rebecca V. Nellis, Director of Programs, Cancer and Careers
Laura Mosiello LCSW-R, Director of Women's Cancer, CancerCare
www.conferenceplus.com/confcenter/PinCode/Pin_Code.aspx?100004&o=70542594381631

April 1st, 2010 Re-entering the Workforce After Short and Long Absences
Speakers: Julie Jansen, Executive and Career Coach and Author
Laura Mosiello LCSW-R, Director of Women's Cancer, CancerCare
www.conferenceplus.com/confcenter/PinCode/Pin_Code.aspx?100004&o=70542594381754

May 6th, 2010 Legal and Insurance Issues To Consider
Speaker: Joanna L. Morales Esq., Director, Cancer Legal Resource Center
www.conferenceplus.com/confcenter/PinCode/Pin_Code.aspx?100004&o=70542594381877

Note: All of the above events are free teleconferences/webinars and start at 12:00pm EST

Accreditation:

Application has been made for 3 contact hours to the ONS Approver Unit. ONS is accredited as an approver of continuing nursing education by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.

This program is verified by the National Association of Social Workers (Approval #886534115) for three (3) continuing education contact hours. (Note: Due to individual state regulations NASW is NOT approved to provide social worker CEUs in the following states: California, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio and West Virginia.)

This three-part series is made possible by support from the Avon Foundation.
 

O is for Organize

by Alice McKenney
filed under Cancer, Coping, Life, Organize, with, Work

 

"The ultimate goal is for you to have your life so organized that you can deal with cancer treatment almost on autopilot." Wouldn't that be great? Everyone's cancer experience is different, to be sure, but there are some key parts of your life that if you organize them right, it will make your life a lot simpler. And fitting your job into all of it is only a small part. According to Dr. Richard Frank, there are 7 main players to organize:

1. Organize your treatment. Choose oncologists and treatment centers that fit with your personal needs.
2. Organize your loved ones. The more united your loved ones are behind you, the stronger you will be throughout this ordeal.
3. Organize your support system. Don't be afraid to ask for help with chores, transportation, meals, you name it.
4. Organize your mind. Avoid negative people and pursue tranquility. Celebrate the little wins and laugh as much as possible.
5. Organize your work. Know your options: part-time, working from home, short- or long-term disability, etc.
6. Organize your finances. Now is a better time than ever to learn what's covered by your insurance, and to make sure your loved ones are cared for.
7. Organize your time. Make sure regardless of what all the above issues bring to light, it's important to make time for yourself.

For more concrete tips on organizing your work life and your cancer, check out these articles:
http://cancerandcareers.org/women/taking_charge/getting_organized/
http://cancerandcareers.org/women/working/cancer_treatment_and_the_workplace/

These great tips (and more!) can be found on p. 24 of the February issue of Coping with Cancer magazine.
 

 

CEW's Young Executives and Kenneth Cole come together to support CAC

by Devon Slauenwhite
filed under beauty, Cancer, CEW, executives, Fundraiser, young

 

On Tuesday night, a fabulous group of young beauty industry executives got together at Kenneth Cole's boutique in Grand Central Station (right around the corner from CAC's office!) to network, shop and support a great cause -- 20% of the evening's proceeds will be donated to Cancer and Careers.

 

 

Our thanks to Kenneth Cole Productions and the CEW Young Executive Committee for hosting a great event!

Disclosing cancer to employer while in high ranking position -- yay or nay?

by Alice McKenney
filed under Cancer, disclose, High, In, Job, News, Ranking, The

 

Whether or not to disclose your cancer to your employer often depends on the situation. Prognosis, extent of treatment, and accommodations needed are just a few things to consider. However, do things change at all if you're in a high ranking position?

This issue is a current and controversial one for people in the UK. Marjorie "Mo" Mowlam was a member of the British Parliament from 1987 to 2001. In 1997, she was appointed to the position of Secretary of State of Northern Ireland. Right before this appointment she publicly announced that she had a benign brain tumor. Shortly thereafter in 2001, she retired from politics, and then passed away in 2005. 

Mo Mawlam, courtesy of The Observer

 Why is this relevant you might ask? Well, it has only come to light in the past few weeks that Mo's tumor wasn't benign at all - it was malignant and terminal. Only three people knew this truth until now: Mo, her husband, and her doctor. Responses to this news flash have ranged from calling her courageous for continuing in her difficult position, to calling her a liar for not telling her constituents the real story. Also, while her doctor was legally bound not to say anything, he had strongly advised her to tell the administration about her cancer (but she still chose not to).

Ruth Bader Ginsberg, a US Supreme Court Justice, did just the opposite. When she was diagnosed with colon cancer 10 years ago, the public knew. When she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a year ago, the public knew. And to top it off she worked through all of it.

Mo was quite lucky that her cancer treatments did not interfere with her day-to-day work life, but most people are not so lucky. What would you have done in this situation? Was it her duty to come clean with the truth? Or do you think she went about it the right way?

Also check out these other articles about Mo, as well as some resources that we have on the topic:
Keeping Cancer Undercover (via @stales on Twitter)
How Mo Mawlam misled Tony Blair for nine years about her killer cancer
Should You Tell
What To Tell
Who To Tell
 

Tracey: Surprise party and cancer piñata

by Cancer and Careers staff
filed under Blogger, Cancer, Guest, Party, Piñata, Surprise, Tracey

 

There are so many things that I forget to write about, it would take me 10 pages to cram in all the wonderful things people did to make my life more bearable while going through treatment. My coworkers teamed up with family and friends to throw me a fantastic semi-surprise party. I thought I was just having people over for BBQ and drinks, but later into the evening they brought out this giant handmade cancer piñata. When Imagineers and artists team up the end results can be well crafted and entertaining. The construction, lovingly dubbed cancerñada, was a lumpy red ball with blue veins and streamers covered in glitter.  The inside of the tumor piñata was filled to bursting with all manner of lip glosses, crazy flavored chapsticks (I am obsessed with lip stuff) and mini hand sanitizers to keep me from getting sick. Everyone there made a contribution. They wanted me to beat the hell out of cancer; and I did. Later my sister brought out a vegan cake that said fu*k cancer! on it. That party was one of the sweetest and most ingenious things anyone has ever done for me. My friends, family and people I work with are some amazing human beings.

 

Tracey: Working Through It

by Cancer and Careers staff
filed under Blogger, Guest, It, Through, Tracey, Working

 

There are some drawbacks to working. It would be nice to hang out at a health spa for the duration of treatment, but that doesn’t happen. As a 26 year-old woman I had to work through my illness. I needed insurance and money for continued care. I had to work through guilt that I wasn’t doing enough work for my projects. Someone eventually told me to “quit being a martyr, you have cancer. No one is going to say… oh that Tracey, she worked so much harder before cancer.”

I am very ambitious at work, throwing myself into my art with all the passion I have. It was hard to give up my high-stress high-achievement work ethic to accommodate cancer treatments. I simply couldn’t do as much…and a lot of the time I didn’t want to do anything at all. The accommodations that people were willing to make and the modifications to my environment at work made for a nearly stress free environment. I really can’t wait to bump up my workload and continue my career growth uninterrupted.

The compassion I have had from my workplace has been so incredible. I will be forever grateful. Walt Disney Imagineering gets an A+ for handling employees with catastrophic illness. In my opinion, letting people into this part of life is incredibly rewarding. People feel closer and it creates bonds that carry through to better health. The more support a person has the easier it is to battle this disease. Cancer sucks, but it also allows you to appreciate how willing people are to help.

Tracey works for Walt Disney Imagineering and is a 1-year angiosarcoma survivor.  This is her fourth guest blog for Cancer and Careers.

Tracey: Workplace as Support Place

by Cancer and Careers staff
filed under Blogger, Guest, Place, Support, Tracey, Workplace

 

I had cancer field trips where I took people from work with me to chemo and radiation treatments. They’ve seen me be aligned for radiation and watched me be connected through my portacath to a chemo infusion. I spared no details and told them what everything felt like.

Constant exposure to my life with cancer allowed people to be comfortable around my illness. After a while people started cracking cancer jokes and asking if I play the cancer card to get out of speeding tickets. I was teased by one of my producers that she’d smuggle in a flask of tequila for me after surgery claiming to be my aunt. I got a visit but no tequila - maybe next time! I came home from surgery to a very beautiful flower arrangement and an email from my boss telling me that they all had drinks at the monthly creative meeting and everyone around the room said something nice about me.

For one person, coming with me to chemotherapy was especially rewarding. When her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer she was too scared to go with her treatments, and she has always felt guilty about it. For her, going to one of my chemotherapy treatments felt a little like redemption. When she told me this I went home and cried.

I feel like my attitude towards cancer puts people at ease; they feel they can ask questions without me falling apart on them. The workplace can be a source of great support…After all, coworkers are an integral part of life. You’re with them eight hours out of your day.            

Tracey works for Walt Disney Imagineering and is a 1-year angiosarcoma survivor.  This is the third of her four guest blogs for Cancer and Careers.

Tracey: Sharing the News

by Cancer and Careers staff
filed under Blogger, Guest, News, Sharing, The, Tracey

 

For me, it was easy to be open about my cancer diagnosis with co-workers. The news spread like a brush fire around the office until my boss caught wind of it. Greg, my functional leader, was great. He set up a meeting with HR so that I knew what to do when it was time to go on medical leave for surgery. I was told not to worry about my job, and that I would be allowed all the time I needed to recover. At the time I was in a cubicle with no privacy, and if you have ever had a serious illness…You know that when a doctor calls, you take it!

I remember getting a call from my surgeon telling me that my chemotherapy regimens were not working and he had me scheduled for a mastectomy in two days. I wasn’t mentally prepared for that one. I fled into a neighboring empty office and sobbed until I was hiccupping. Springing a mastectomy on someone is NOT cool! Some lobbying was done on my behalf by some amazing women. After that, I was given an office for privacy and a couch was brought in for when my treatments left me fatigued. My workload was reduced so that I wouldn’t be under too much pressure. I was also given a company laptop so that when I was feeling extra horrible from treatments I could just go home to work. All of which made my life so much easier. It was an unexpected kindness that I have really appreciated. Peter, my VP creative executive (whom our whole division reports to) was constantly checking in on me. His wife had her own battle with cancer and her treatments were similar to mine. He had a special depth of understanding for what I was going through. I have learned that cancer touches a lot of lives.
 

Tracey works for Walt Disney Imagineering and is a 1-year angiosarcoma survivor.  This is the second of her four guest blogs for Cancer and Careers.

Tracey: Back to Work

by Cancer and Careers staff
filed under Back, Blog, Guest, to, Tracey, Work

 

“Are you back to work yet?” is probably my third most asked question about cancer. The first being, “How are you feeling” and second, “What kind?” The answer to the first one is that I feel okay…Sometimes I am a little tired but that’s normal under the circumstances. The second is Angiosarcoma, which is a very rare vascular cancer that effects about 1,200 people a year. The cancer was located in my left breast but shares no relation to breast cancer. I am finishing my last rounds of chemo now, and I’ll hopefully be free and clear of cancer for the rest of my life.

I haven’t missed much work since I was first diagnosed in January 2009. So the “are you back to work” question always throws me for a loop. Why wouldn’t I be working? I love my job and, to be quite candid, working while I’ve been dealing with a life threatening illness has kept me sane. It’s very easy to get lost in the emotions of diagnosis and subsequent treatments. The fear of death is very immediate and the physical changes that treatment brings can be devastating. I have had two surgeries, eight weeks of radiation, and 12 rounds of chemotherapy. I have no hair, eyebrows, eyelashes, and I am missing a breast. It sucks, but I have some kickin’ wigs I wear everyday and makeup artist for sisters. 

Tracey works for Walt Disney Imagineering and is a 1-year angiosarcoma survivor.  This is the first of her four guest blogs for Cancer and Careers.
 

Thanks, Planet Cancer!

by Kate Sweeney
filed under and, Cancer, Careers, planet

 

According to Planet Cancer, CAC is " A great resource for working women with cancer, their employers, co-workers and caregivers. The Paperwork section is particularly useful, with an overview of legal rights, the ins and outs of health care, and a number of templates for organizing your medical info." We couldn't have said it better ourselves.

Meet Kristen

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Breast, Cancer, Careers, Survivor, treatment, Work

 

Wife. Mother. Beauty Industry Professional. Breast Cancer Survivor.

Hear in her own words how Cancer and Careers helped her balance life, work and treatment.


 
Produced by Greener Media (http://www.greenermedia.com/)

Beauty of Giving luncheon

by Alice McKenney
filed under beauty, CEW, Event, Fundraiser, Giving, luncheon, of

 

The annual Cancer and Careers/CEW Foundation Beauty of Giving luncheon was held last week at the Waldorf=Astoria in NYC. The luncheon honored Leslie Blodgett, CEO of Bare Escentuals for her extraordinary achievement in uniting business with philanthropy. Blodgett’s commitment to Cancer and Careers has been expressed through a variety of creative cause marketing partnerships, a corporate philanthropy program called B.E. Cares, and a commitment to cultivating a community of support.

 The event was a great success with revenue totaling $515,650, and with all net proceeds supporting Cancer and Careers' initiatives and resources such as:

 

• Cancer and Careers’ community outreach programming

• The Elizabeth Jerrett support group for cancer survivors

• Cancer and Careers’ interactive online career coaching for employees with cancer

• Cancer and Careers’ On the Go Survival Guide series

• Resources for companies and coworkers

 

The Beauty of Giving luncheon was generously sponsored by: 

Happy Thanksgiving from Cancer and Careers

by Alice McKenney
filed under Go, guides, holiday, Nutrition, On, orzo, recipe, thanksgiving, The

 

Cancer and Careers would like to wish you and yours a very happy Thanksgiving!  Thanksgiving is about two things: giving thanks and eating. So I thought I would share one of the recipes from our Nutrition On The Go Guide that is specially formulated for cancer patients and survivors.  It makes a great side dish!

Orzo Salad

16 oz. package of orzo pasta

10 oz. baby spinach, washed and chopped

1/2 lb. crumbled feta cheese

1/2 red onion, chopped

3/4 cup pine nuts

Chopped fresh basil to taste

Ground pepper to taste

1/2 cup olive oil

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

Cook orzo 8 to 10 minutes, rinse with cold water.  Mix all ingredients in a big bowl; serve. Makes 4 to 6 servings.

May alleviate constipation, dry mouth or difficulty swallowing.

To order a free On The Go Guide set, please click here.

Busy travel week for CAC

by Alice McKenney
filed under Austin, Francisco, LIVESTRONG, ONS, San, Tampa, Travel, YAA

 

This week various members of the Cancer and Careers team are traveling all over the US for great conferences and seminars. They include:

• The Balancing Cancer and Careers community seminar in San Francisco, CA on the 10th
• The Livestrong Young Adult Alliance conference in Austin, TX on the 12th and 13th
• The Oncology Nursing Society's Institutes of Learning Conference in Tampa, FL on the 13th and 14th

If you are attending any of these events keep your eyes peeled for CAC staff members. And don't forget to visit our blog again next week for recaps from these events.
 

Last chance to shop for CAC!

by Devon Slauenwhite
filed under Awareness, Breast, Cancer, Month, shop

 

Today only, when you visit Beauty.com, click on the special "Shop & Support" link, and spend $50 or more they will donate $5 to Cancer and Careers! And through tomorrow more than thirty Beauty.com brands will continue to donate a portion of proceeds of sales to CAC.

And don't forget - until tomorrow, when you purchase any of the items below, Cancer and Careers will receive a donation!

Bare Escentuals Believe Eyecolor: Available at www.bareescentuals.com.
Decléor’s Lip Balm and Cleansing Wipes: Visit www.decleordirect.com.
DuWop Pink Shimmer Lip Venom: Visit www.duwop.com.
En Pointe Skin Solutions: Visit www.empoweryourskin.com.
Shiseido The Makeup Luminizing Satin Eyecolor in Peony: Available at www.dillards.com.
SUNDÃRI Special Edition Holiday Gift Sets: Visit www.sundari.com.
Tribal Societé's Tribal Artisan Accessories: Visit www.tribalsociete.com.

You've got a little longer for 3LAB - shop until the end of November!

3LAB Perfect Neck Cream: Exclusively at Barneys.

 

Get gorgeous for a good cause!

Help for Chemo Brain -- New Book Offers Ways to Cope with the Fog

by Cancer and Careers staff
filed under After, Book, Brain, chemo, Davidson, Silverman, Your

 

Trying to work as you battle your way through "chemo brain?" In a new book, Your Brain After Chemo (Da Capo Press, 2009) Journalist Idelle Davidson (a former breast cancer patient who fought chemo brain herself) and UCLA physician researcher Dan Silverman, MD, PhD, present a readable, intriguing blend of scientific updates on what's behind "chemo brain" coupled with a generous dose of practical coping tips. Among the best tips:

• Forget multitasking. Focus on one work task at a time, then go on to the next.

• Rehearse. Practice that sales presentation or speech with the boss multiple times before it's due.

• Ban clutter. If you're a sticky note addict, now's the time to drop the habit. Keep every work-related "to do" task in one place--such as a notebook you take everywhere.

• Help yourself. Label your office phone and cell phone with the numbers. It's one less thing to remember when talking to clients or others you must do business with and get responses from.

Bonus: The book also includes a rich appendix of resources, including memory training opportunities, healing retreats, support groups, clinical trial information and additional self-help books.
 

Shop Beauty.com This Week to Support CAC!

by Devon Slauenwhite
filed under Awareness, beauty, beauty.com, Breast, Cancer, cause, marketing

 

 

This week only, Beauty.com will be donating 10% of purchases made through the link www.beauty.com/cancerandcareers directly to Cancer and Careers.

So shop today, and help provide critical support for working women with cancer!
 

In the New York area? Come Rock For A Cause!

by Devon Slauenwhite
filed under Benefit, Concert, Event, Fest, Fundraiser, NYC, Pink

 

Cancer and Careers is thrilled to be the beneficiary of PinkFest, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness and funds to support women as they face the challenges of fighting cancer.

PinkFest 2009 features music by The Vowels, Joe D'Urso & Stone Caravan and Christine Martucci Band. Plus free drinks, auctions and raffles all night long.

Tickets are $60 for early birds, $75 at the door. All PinkFest net proceeds will be donated to Cancer and Careers. We hope to see you there!

What:
PinkFest 2009
When:
October 21, 2009
6:30 - 11:00 pm
Where:
Hard Rock Café Times Square
1501 Broadway
between 43rd and 44th
New York, NY 10036

Visit www.pinkfestbenefit.com for more information and to buy tickets!

Resources for Healthcare Professionals

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Cancer, Navigators, Nurses, oncology, Patient, Resources, Social, Work, Workers

 

Are you an oncology nurse, social worker or patient navigator?
Do your patients ask for guidance on working through treatment?
Do you wish you had better answers?

Cancer and Careers is thrilled to announce the launch of its brand new website area for Healthcare Professionals, including:
• Educational videos on topics such as practical advice and tools; legal and insurance issues; and re-entering the workforce, each presented by a panel of experts
• Articles on issues your patients face as they balance work and cancer treatment
• A downloadable publication, For Healthcare Professionals: A Guide to Helping Patients Manage Cancer & Work
• A downloadable Seminar-in-a-Box Kit that provides guidance and content to present events for your patients on working through treatment

All of the above can be accessed by visiting: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/healthcare_professionals/.

 

Balancing Nutrition and Cancer

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under American, Cancer, Cookbook, Cooking, Diet, Eating, Nutrition, Recipes, Society

 

We were excited to hear about The American Cancer Society's recently released cookbook What To Eat During Cancer Treatment: 100 Great-Tasting, Family-Friendly Recipes to Help You Cope because we know how challenging maintaining good nutrition can be during treatment. We particularly love that the editors arranged the recipes by symptoms that might be affecting eating patterns so that patients can easily find the best food options for their particular issues.

For more information on the cookbook, http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/10/05/cancer.diet.cookbook/index.html

And, don't forget to check out Cancer and Careers' Nutrition On The Go Guide, which can be ordered free of charge here: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/publications/
 

Take a Stand on Healthcare

by Kate Sweeney
filed under Cancer, healthcare, Insurance, LIVESTRONG, petition, reform

 

Now's your chance to tell congress that losing their insurance is the last thing that people with cancer should have to worry about. No matter what side of the healthcare debate you're on, we can all agree that:

1) No American should be denied health insurance coverage because of pre-existing conditions.

2) No American should lose their insurance due to changes in health or employment.

Sign the LIVESTRONG Action petition here: http://www.livestrongaction.org/campaigns/healthcare to make sure any healthcare reform bills includes these two critically important reforms.

CAC shines during Breast Cancer Awareness month

by Alice McKenney
filed under Awareness, Breast, Cancer, Martha, Month, PSA, SELF, Shape, Stewart

 

We are thrilled to announce that Cancer and Careers has a presence in not one, not two, but THREE popular magazines this October!

- SELF Magazine has granted us a full page PSA on p. 71, and we've also created some buzz for our Beauty.com partnership (more info on this exciting relationship to come)
- Shape Magazine has a full-page Cancer and Careers PSA on p. 14 of the breast health handbook in their October issue
- Martha Stewart Living has us listed as one of only five recommended cancer websites on p. 42

Check out these mags on your local newsstand today. And don't forget, Cancer and Careers is your resource for working through any type of cancer.

Have you seen our Charts & Checklists?

by Alice McKenney
filed under charts, checklists, doctor’s, forms, questions, website

 

Working through cancer is hard enough. To top it off, you have to keep everything in order, from doctor’s appointments to medications to insurance. It can be exhausting!

That’s why we have our Charts and Checklists page, offering a wide array of free downloadable documents to help get you organized. Having trouble keeping track of medications? Check out the Prescription Drug log. Going in for treatment soon but don’t know what to expect? Look at the Questions to Ask section, which has ideas for questions to ask your doctor about chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and so much more. Have a treatment coming up but aren’t sure how to prepare for it? Check out Things to Bring to Treatment, and Preparing Your Home for After Treatments.

Have you used any of our charts and checklists (most of which are also in our Living and Working with Cancer handbook)? How have they been useful? And if you haven’t used them, tell us how you keep everything organized!

Sundari and Bare Escentuals support CAC!

by Devon Slauenwhite
filed under Bare, beauty, cause, Escentuals, marketing, September, Sundari

 

We are proud to announce that both Sundari and Bare Escentuals have products for sale this month that support Cancer and Careers! These promotions, which both extend through the end of October, signal the beginning of our annual pink ribbon initiative campaign.

See below for more details on our current partnerships, and click through to participate! 

Bare Escentuals Believe Eyecolor: Through the BE Cares program, all purchases of this lovely ice-blue shadow in Sept. and Oct. will contribute toward a $25,000 donation to CAC.

 

SUNDÃRI Special Edition Holiday Gift Sets: 2% of proceeds of the Commitment, Perseverance, and Dedication gift sets will be donated from now through Nov. 2009.

 

If you would like more information on these partnerships, or are interested in partnering with us, please contact me at dslauenwhite@cew.org.

Meet the Cancer and Careers Staff, Part 4!

by Kate Sweeney
filed under Director, executive, Kate, meet, staff, Sweeney, The

Hi I'm Kate Sweeney, I’m the Executive Director of the Cosmetic Executive Women Foundation. I was CAC’s first and only employee when we launched our website in 2001. These days, I spend my time being very grateful to have such a talented staff, and overseeing all of the Cancer and Careers operations. I also speak at cancer conferences, health events, and community seminars around the country and serve as an expert on cancer in the workplace for national news and media outlets.

 

Thanks to the wonders of technology, I telecommute between my home office in Boulder, Co. and New York. On my off-time, I hike and do yoga but get most of my exercise from running after my twin, five-year-old boys.

Meet the Cancer and Careers Staff Part 3!

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Director, meet, Nellis, of, Programs, Rebecca, staff, The

 

I'm Rebecca Nellis, Director of Programs. My tenure with Cancer and Careers began in early 2004, and these days I am responsible for developing and implementing our new initiatives as well as maintaining the programs already up and running. Outside of CAC, I travel loads, am working my way through a microeconomics course and am the co-founder/resident director of a theatre company. 

Meet the Cancer and Careers Staff Part 2!

by Devon Slauenwhite
filed under Development, Devon, Director, meet, Slauenwhite, staff, The

Hi! I'm Devon Slauenwhite, Director of Development. I've been with Cancer and Careers for just over 2.5 years now, and I am responsible for all of the fundraising for the program. I live in lovely Brooklyn, New York and when I'm not raising money, I can usually be found running, experimenting in the kitchen, taking French classes or doing yoga.

Meet the Cancer and Careers Staff! Part 1 of 4

by Alice McKenney
filed under Alice, assistant, foundation, mckenney, meet, staff, The

 

Did you know there are only 4 members of the Cancer and Careers staff? Most don't! So we thought we would introduce ourselves.

I'm first! I am the Foundation Assistant, and have been working here for just shy of a year. I touch all of the departments here at CAC (programming, development, etc.) but where my name is probably most recognized from is that I manage all of CAC's social media including (but not limited to) Facebook and Twitter. Come say hi! Outside of the CAC sphere, I play flute in a community orchestra, like watching 'quality' TV shows (Bravo is my channel of choice right now), and love hosting dinner parties.

Next time -- meet Devon Slauenwhite, our Director of Development!

www.facebook.com/cancerandcareers
www.twitter.com/cancerandcareer

Ticket to Ride

by Alice McKenney
filed under cancercare, Door, grant, multiple, myeloma, to, transportation

 

New CancerCare program defrays transportation costs

Getting from work to treatment and back home again will get easier for some patients with multiple myeloma, thanks to CancerCare's new "Door to Door" program. Under the new effort, announced July 20, CancerCare, a New York-based nonprofit, will offer individual grants of up to $600 a year to patients with multiple myeloma who need help with transportation expenses associated with getting to and from medical care. That includes gas costs as well as taxi, bus or train fare. Potential applicants may view the application form, including financial criteria, at www.cancercare.org. The grant program is funded partially by Millennium: The Takeda Oncology Company. About 20,000 people per year in the U.S. receive a diagnosis of multiple myeloma, a bone marrow cancer.

To receive a Door to Door transportation grant, patients must meet certain eligibility criteria and complete an application form. A sample patient application form along with a physician verification form may be viewed online. To apply, call 1-800-813-HOPE (4673).

Trend: Longer Chemotherapy -- How will it affect your work?

by Alice McKenney
filed under Cancer, cancercare, chemotherapy, FMLA, lymphoma, maintenance, multiple, myeloma, non-Hodgkin's, NY, ovarian, therapy, Times

 

Chemotherapy is increasingly being given as "maintenance" therapy, continuing the regimen even after the cancer is under control, as a preventive strategy, according to a recent report in the New York Times. This approach is being used for ovarian cancer, multiple myeloma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Here, Rosalie Canosa, a licensed clinical social worker and program division director at CancerCare, weighs in on what effects this trend may have in the workplace.

*If your oncologist suggests maintenance chemotherapy, you may need to work during the treatment or ask for additional time off under laws such as the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to undergo the extra chemo sessions and to take more recovery time. You may also need to request more accommodation, such as a flexible schedule. (Before deciding on maintenance chemo, ask your oncologist for evidence that the specific chemo suggested has been shown to work well to prevent relapse.)

*You may face increased out-of-pocket costs. "Some of these maintenance drugs are very expensive," Canosa says, ''and some people have lifetime caps [for coverage] on policies.'' You may need to research special assistance programs for help with payments if your policy doesn't cover enough or any of the extra chemo.

Employers, for their part, should anticipate that this trend will affect their workforce in the future. Employers should consider researching in advance to find or supply sources of financial help for these workers, and they should anticipate requests for additional accommodations.

The Times' article is here: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/21/health/21canc.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&th&emc=th
 

Your Legal Questions Answered - part 2

by Alice McKenney
filed under adult, CLRC, COBRA, college, health, help, Insurance, law, legal, Michelle's, young

 

As mentioned in the last blog, Joanna Morales, Director of the Cancer Legal Resource Center, was the speaker at our recent "Legal and Insurance Questions Answered" conference. See below for some more of her responses to popular questions:

I have a question about young adults. Full-time college students with a cancer diagnosis are covered by their parents plan, but then may need to stop school in order to have their cancer treatment, causing their parent's plans drop them. Are they in anyway eligible for COBRA through that plan?

Last year we had a federal law passed called Michelle's Law and it was created specifically to address that situation. Previously in order to stay on a parent's policy after a child has graduated from high school, the clause in the parent's policy typically says that children have to maintain full-time student status in order to be eligible for coverage under their policy. So even if a student was diagnosed with a serious medical condition, they would have to keep a full load of classes in order to keep their health insurance. Michelle's Law which was passed last year says that a child with a serious medical condition gets an additional year of health insurance coverage and they don't have to maintain their full-time student status. Once that year of coverage expires, if the student still isn't able to return to full-time student status, then they are eligible for COBRA coverage for up to 36 months.

If your new job has an exclusionary or waiting period where your benefits don't start until after three months and you continue COBRA, does the COBRA count towards your creditable coverage* time?

Yes, your COBRA does count towards your creditable coverage time, and also that 90-day waiting period for eligibility of benefits is very common at a new employer. The benefit to that is if your employer imposes a six-month exclusion period on the new health insurance plan, the three months that you're waiting to get eligibility for benefits actually counts towards your exclusionary period. Also, as long as you don’t have a break longer than 63 days, you could be on active treatment and it won’t affect the creditable coverage.

* Creditable coverage is any previous period of health insurance coverage that was not interrupted by a break in coverage of more than 63 days. For more information please click here: http://www.cancerlegalresourcecenter.org/documents/HEALTHINSURANC1.pdf

Do you need more personalized legal help? Contact the CLRC at www.cancerlegalresourcecenter.org.
 

Are you a healthcare professional? Then take the CLRC's survey so that they can provide relevant info to you in the future. The survey is located here.

Your Legal Questions Answered - part 1

by Alice McKenney
filed under CLRC, COBRA, help, HIPAA, HIPP, Insurance, legal

The Cancer Legal Resource Center (CLRC), mentioned in a previous blog, is a fountain of information for those who need cancer-related legal counseling. Joanna Morales, Esq. is the Director of the CLRC. She spoke at our "Legal and Insurance Questions Answered" teleconference. Many relevant questions came up during that conference, so please see below for some of the more popular ones:

Can you utilize a HIPAA plan if COBRA is available to you?
In order to be eligible for a HIPPA plan, you have to have exhausted your COBRA coverage, so you wouldn't be able to jump straight to a HIPAA plan. If you don't use up your COBRA coverage, then HIPAA isn't an option for you, so you would be looking at something like a major risk plan or a high risk insurance pool or a Medicaid plan in your state or Medicare if you qualify for either of those programs, which is why it's so important to try to keep your COBRA coverage because that opens up possibilities that are available to you indefinitely.

What if you can't afford COBRA?

If you can't afford your COBRA plan, right now there is the [federal] subsidy. There is also the HIPP program in some states, where if you have an income and an asset level low enough to qualify you for Medicaid, you will actually get your health insurance premiums paid for you by Medicaid rather than having to actually going on to Medicaid. It's cheaper for the state to pay your private health insurance premiums than to pay for all of your care. So the HIPP program is one option that's available, and then there are a number of private organizations that do provide assistance with paying for COBRA premiums or co-pays. (For more information on these, please visit http://disabilityrightslegalcenter.org/about/documents/FinancialAssistanceNational.pdf)

Do you need more personalized legal help? Contact the CLRC at www.cancerlegalresourcecenter.org.
 

Are you a healthcare professional?  Then take the CLRC's survey so that they can provide relevant info to you in the future.  The survey is located here.

Cancer Legal Resource Center

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Cancer, Career, Center, Disability, Discrimination, Insurance, legal, Resource, Work

A fantastic resource that we refer people to several times a day is the Cancer Legal Resource Center. They are a nonprofit that provides pro-bono counseling nation-wide on legal and insurance issues.

To reach them:
Toll Free #: (866) THE-CLRC or (866) 843-2572
Phone: (213) 736-1455
TDD: (213) 736-8310
Fax: (213) 736-1428
Email: CLRC@LLS.edu
http://www.cancerlegalresourcecenter.org/

A few additional legal resources that may be of use are:

• LawHelp.org, which provides basic legal information to people on low incomes.
• Workplacefairness.org, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting employee rights.
• National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, a survivor-led advocacy group, the coalition includes information on its website on employment rights, advocacy and other information. http://www.canceradvocacy.org/resources/publications/employment.pdf
   

Cancer and Careers Partners with Laura Geller Makeup!

by Devon Slauenwhite
filed under cause, eyeliner, geller, laura, marketing

 

  

We are excited to announce that as of March 2009, Laura Geller Makeup is donating $1 from the sale of each i-Care Eyeliner to support Cancer and Careers. This unique liner is soft, smooth, and super long wearing, and contains beneficial and nourishing ingredients perfect for the delicate eye area.  

Get gorgeous while supporting CAC! Available for sale online exclusively at QVC.

Federal One-Stop Career Centers

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Advice, Career, Employment, Federal, Interview, Job, Resume

During yesterday's Educational Series teleconference, one of our career coaches recommended federal one-stop career centers as a good resource for planning to re-enter the workforce after cancer. Having never heard of them I did a quick google search and found a great web site (http://www.careeronestop.org/) that is choc-a-bloc with general information on things like resume writing and interviewing successfully as well as a directory for local centers.

For the directory visit: http://www.careeronestop.org/Reemployment/ChangeCareers/FindCareerOneStopCenter.aspx and if you have questions for a career coach be sure stop by our online career coaching center here: http://cancerandcareers.org/career-coaching/.
 

Facing The Mirror with Cancer

by Kate Sweeney
filed under cosmetics, makeup

A friend of CEW, and fellow makeup artist, passed on this tip about a great book on makeup for cancer survivors:

"I recently came across a remarkable individual named Lori Ovitz. Lori is a former celebrity make-up artist who has learned firsthand the enormous boost in self-esteem that looking good delivers. For the past 10 years, Lori has dedicated her life to teaching cancer patients, at no charge, how to apply their makeup. Lori watched as her makeovers restored a sense of confidence and even dignity to cancer patients fighting for their lives. Aware that she could only work with a limited number of patients, Lori self published (Belle Press) a 200 page step-by-step book called "Facing the Mirror with Cancer" demonstrating ways to use makeup to lessen the affects of cancer treatments. Lori wrote this inspirational book because she knew that she could touch so many more individuals than just the ones she worked on."

 Interested? You can buy the book and get more info here: http://www.facingthemirror.org/.

 Another excellent book on the same topic is Ramy Gafni's Beauty Therapy: The Ultimate Guide to Looking and Feeling Great While Living with Cancer.

Telling Your Employer, part 3

by Alice McKenney
filed under accomodations, ADA, ask, Cancer, employer, reasonable, Work

Did you know an employer is not allowed to ask about your medical history, let alone if you have cancer? It's true! Your employer can only ask if you can perform the essential
functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation. And they can only make you take a medical exam if everyone else in your job category is required to do it as well. Not to mention that you can't be turned down for a new job unless the results of this medical exam show that you can't perform the essential functions of the position. For more information on Reasonable Accommodations in the Job Application Process, check out section I, C, 5 here: http://www.cancerlegalresourcecenter.org/documents/EMPLOYMENTRIGHTS.pdf
 

Parts 1 and 2 of this blog are located here and here.

Telling Your Employer, part 2

by Alice McKenney
filed under Cancer, coworker, employer, HR, tell, to, who, Work

If you do decide to tell your employer, the next question is who should you tell -- your boss, human resources, co-workers? And how should you handle it if you're the boss? The answer is different for everyone, but we can help you decide what's right for your individual situation in our article on Who To Tell: http://cancerandcareers.org/women/share_news/who_to_tell_when_you_have_cancer/. Comment and let us know who you told at your workplace!

Parts 1 and 3 of this blog post are located here and here.

Telling Your Employer, part 1

by Alice McKenney
filed under accomodation, ADA, Cancer, disclose, employer, reasonable, tell, Work

Someone recently asked me on Twitter: Do I have to disclose my cancer to a new employer? This is one of the most common questions that we get. The quick and simple answer is: no. However, you do have to tell if you are requesting reasonable accommodations in order to perform your basic duties. The Americans with Disabilities Act, which protects you from discrimination and requires your employer to provide reasonable accommodations doesn't apply if you haven't disclosed your diagnosis. For more on the ADA and what constitutes a "reasonable accommodation," click here or here.

And don't forget to check out parts 2 and 3 of this blog located here and here.

Is the economy leveling the playing field for job-seeking survivors?

by Rebecca Nellis
filed under Cancer, Career, Economy, Journal, Resume, Street, Survivors, Wall, Work

A recent article in the Wall Street Journal about looking for work and preparing resumes in this economy got us thinking that a possible upside of the current market is that cancer survivors are now on a more equal footing with the rest of the work-seeking population. Everyone is spinning their resumes to explain time out of work or a switch in career direction. As time away from the work world becomes more common across the workforce, it is less likely to be a sticking point for a potential employer. One strategy, the WSJ article touches on is to create a functional resume rather than a chronological one, focusing on the types of skill sets rather than the order in which they were acquired.

Have more questions on how to create a skills based resume? Ask our career coaches here: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/career-coaching/. To read the WSJ article click here: http://finance.yahoo.com/career-work/article/107119/The-New-Resume-Dumb-and-Dumber.
 

Photo courtesy of guardian.co.uk

Happy 20th Birthday Look Good...Feel Better!

by Kate Sweeney
filed under better,, good...feel, look, makeover,, makeup, prize,, sweepstakes,, trip,

Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, the public service program Look Good...Feel Better has helped more than one million cancer patients across the globe cope with the cosmetic fallouts of the disease. Two-hour group workshops at hospitals and cancer centers led by experts help patients style their hair, care for their skin, apply flattering makeup and restore confidence. One-on-one instruction from cosmetologists is available, too. In recent years, Look Good …Feel Better has expanded to include men and teens and has translated its materials into Spanish. It's also teamed with CVS Pharmacy to educate in-store beauty advisors and to make program information available in some CVS stores across the country. This year, there's even more for cancer patients: you're invited to submit your story of hope, courage and determination from now until Aug. 15 for a chance to win a trip to New York for a makeover and a spin on the dance floor at the organization's annual Dream Ball Sept. 24. Details: www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org

 

 

 

On-The-Go Guides

by Alice McKenney
filed under Fitness, Go, Guide, Make-Up, Nutrition, On, The

Everyone knows that all working women are time compressed. Working women with cancer take that to a whole new level with the added challenges and pressures of managing their treatment, personal responsibilities and work life simultaneously. We want to help.

We know that eating healthy on the go and fitting exercise into your hectic chemo/family/work schedule is hard. So we have a brand new resource for you -- On-the-Go Survival Guides! They are portable resources that offer practical, time-efficient advice – tailored for working women with cancer – on everything from what exercises you can do while you're going through radiation to make-up for a pale, sallow complexion. These guides are small enough to fit in your purse, but are chock full of information.

What exercises can you do at your desk? What foods relieve treatment side effects? And how in the world is 30 seconds enough time to put on make-up? Order these free guides and find out for yourself!

Feel free to post a comment to order, or visit our order page to pick and choose a sampling of all of our free publications.

New job protection for those with BRCA1 and BRCA2

by Kate Sweeney
filed under descrimination, genes, GINA, law, legal

There’s good news for people worried about job and health insurance discrimination because of their genetic risk for diseases, including those with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, which put women at an increased risk for breast and ovarian cancer. The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), which was signed into law last year, prohibits health insurers or health plan administrators from requesting genetic information of an individual. GINA also prohibits most employers from using genetic information for hiring, firing or promotion decisions and for any decisions regarding terms of employment. Regulations for the health insurance section of GINA will take effect on May 22, 2009 and the sections relating to employment will take effect on November 21, 2009. For complete details about the provisions in GINA, go to http://www.genome.gov/24519851.

Help with Medical Debt

by Kate Sweeney
filed under debt, financial, Insurance, medical

 It's no surprise that in this economy medical debt for patients is growing and not just among the uninsured. According to surveys done by Commonwealth, a nonprofit healthcare research foundation, nearly two-thirds of those with debt problems had health insurance. The story, which appeared in the New York Times, cited several reasons consumers are having trouble, including the fact that employers are shifting more of the healthcare costs to employees. Plus, consumers are opting for lower-cost health plans that invariably carry higher deductibles or less generous benefits.

• First, look carefully over all outstanding bills—billing errors are common—and make sure that you received all services listed.
• If you’ve been denied a claim, you can try resubmitting it.
• Try negotiating a discount with your healthcare provider. Don't have the time to argue? Hire a billing mediator, a specialist trained in picking up errors and negotiating payment plans. You can find state-by-state listings for mediators as well as other resources for containing escalating medical costs at Medical Billing Advocates of America at www.billadvocates.com.
• Know your rights if your bill has been turned over to a collection agency. For example, debt collectors can’t call you before 8 am or after 9pm or use abusive language. Visit the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse website at www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs27-debtcoll.htm for a complete guide on debt collection.
• Going forward, try negotiating ahead of time the fees you will be charged for a procedure, test or exam. Oftentimes providers will agree to a price break, say experts.

 

Free housecleaning for women with cancer

by Alice McKenney
filed under a, cleaning, day, for, free, mother's, reason, service

Just in time for Mother's Day, there's Cleaning for a Reason--a non-profit that provides free professional housecleaning services to women undergoing cancer treatment. The concept is simple, but the payoff is huge. Simply put your zip code into their website to see if there are any cleaning services in your area that participate, and off you go. Visit them here: www.cleaningforareason.org.

 

Have you heard about any other organizations that provide free services to cancer patients and survivors? Leave a comment to let us know about them!

Back from Oncology Nursing Society Conference

by Kate Sweeney
filed under 101,, Angels,, Cancer, Club,, Gilda's, Imerman's, LIVESTRONG, Nurses, oncology, Society

Just back from San Antonio and the Oncology Nursing Society Conference. Considering the double whammy of the economy and the H1N1 flu, attendance was pretty strong. It was a great opportunity for us to get the word out to the nurses about our services and survey them about what their patients are asking them about combining work and treatment. We'll post the results of the surveys here shortly.

We also got the chance to network with other support organizations like Cancer 101, Gilda's Club, Fertile Hope, Imerman's Angels, LIVESTRONG, Planet Cancer and others. All great organizations and great company to be in!

Break on Insurance Costs

by Kate Sweeney
filed under aid, COBRA, financial, health, income, Insurance, low, troubles

You may be able to save a bundle on the typically hefty premium charged for COBRA health coverage,  thanks to a provision in the stimulus package (formally known as The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009). If you lost your job September 1, 2008, or after, you may be able to pay just  35% of the COBRA premium, while the remaining 65% is reimbursed to the provider of coverage via a tax credit. Caveats: the reduction applies to health coverage periods beginning on or after Feb. 17, 2009--when the act became effective--and can last up to 9 months if you are eligible for COBRA coverage from September 1, 2008 through 2009. (But it does not extend the original maximum coverage period, typically 18 months from the job loss date.)  April 18^th was the deadline for your plan administrator to send you a notice--even if you declined the coverage initially or had it and dropped it. So, if you haven't gotten a notice and think you may qualify, contact your former employer or your health plan administrator. For further details, see information posted at the U.S. Department of Labor site, http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/cobra.html

 

NYT Article on the Politics Behind Oral Drugs

by Kate Sweeney
filed under Advocacy, chemo, Insurance, oral, treatment

 

 

Tickets on Sale Now - SELF Workout in the Park

by Kate Sweeney
filed under Event, Fundraiser, SELF

 

• April 25 - San Diego
• May 9 - New York City
• May 16 - Chicago

 

Welcome to the new Cancer and Careers blog!

by Kate Sweeney
filed under ADA, Celebrities, NYTimes, Welcome